Archive for jazz

It’s with great sadness that I write the following few lines… one of Sweden’s most fantastic pianists and composer Esbjörn Svensson died over the weekend in a diving accident just outside Stockholm, only 44 years old.

His band e.s.t – Esbjörn Svensson Trio – are considered one of the most successful European jazz bands, and very popular in Germany, France and the UK. Personally, I heard their name more here in the UK than I ever did in Sweden and I remember after seeing their gig at the Barbican I got my Tuesday Wonderland album signed and exchanged a few words with him, a very humble and kind man, with a big smile.

Esbjörn Svensson started the trio e.s.t in 1990 together with bassist Dan Berglund and drummer Magnus Öström.

The band themselves claimed to be a pop band playing jazz music, but even the rock and electronic elements are present in their experimental, melodic songs. Maybe this is also why they appealed to music lovers beyond the jazz sphere. Cultures and countries meet in the beautiful music of the trio so it’s not a wonder then that their success has reached worldwide status. Their songs were found on both pop and jazz charts and as well as receiving awards for best jazz act and best composer in Sweden, the band also got international awards for their fusion like and innovative jazz.

Their best performances where live, bringing together visual effets and lighting and their music inviting you to write your own lyrics and paint your own images. EST had just finished recording their 12th album.